By: Masayu Yulien Vinanda

Jakarta (18/03)-2010 is the second year Indonesia taking its part in global climate change campaign Earth Hour. It is also the second time Jakarta hosting this energy-efficiency movement.
The Jakarta provincial government showed its commitment to switch off five iconic buildings in Jakarta. Jakarta’s support was officially mentioned by Jakarta Deputy Governor in “Earth Hour 2010” press conference taking place this Thursday (18/03) in Shangrila Hotel, Jakarta.

Five iconic buildings which are going to be completely dark on Saturday 27 March are Jakarta City Hall, National Monument (Monas), Hotel Indonesia Traffic Circle, Arjuna Wiwaha Statue, and Pemuda Statue. Meanwhile, offices under the management of Jakarta Province will also switch their lights off as their contribution to the Earth Hour campaign.
”The Governor Fauzi Bowo and his officials are ready to support Earth Hour 2010. This year, on behalf of Jakarta Government, we want to encourage other provinces all over Indonesia to participate in the Earth Hour. The Governor’s position as the Head of the Association of Indonesian Provinces is very strategic to do this part, gaining support from other provinces in Indonesia,” Haryadi added.
The switch-off action is one of the simple efforts to combat climate change. If only all Indonesian people turn off their lights and electronic device, tons of CO2 emission will be reduced per year.

“People’s huge concern regarding Earth Hour campaign is expected to create energy-efficient lifestyle practice as well as give contribution to low carbon development,” said WWF-Indonesia Board of Trustee Chairperson Pia Alisjahbana on her keynote speech.
Besides gaining support from public to promote energy-efficient practice, Earth Hour is also trying to build private sectors’ awareness to take part in reducing global emission.
“We keep spreading the information about Earth Hour and educating building owners to take a stand against climate change. Last year, 200 buildings located around Hotel Indonesia Traffic Circle as well as in Sudirman, Thamrin, and Kuningan streets stated their commitment by switching their lights off. This year, we expect there will be more support. Not only from private sectors, but also educational communities and public in general,” WWF-Indonesia Director of Climate and Energy Program Fitrian Ardiansyah said.
Fitrian also mentioned the importance of local wisdom for Earth Hour 2010 success. “Things started from the community always have the full meaning. Make big changes. 1 hour action to change the world,” Fitrian added.